Crime tactics in York

Improved lighting, anti-fly tipping signs and garage locks could be some of the anti-theft and crime preventing items vulnerable residents and local organisations could bid for in York.

Councillor Sandy Fraser, Cabinet Member for Crime and Community Safety will be reviewing a number of options at his decision session on Thursday 6th October to decide how the council could increase awareness of the Target Hardening Fund.

Target Hardening Fund is an annual scheme where local groups can bid for funding to help reduce the number of burglaries and thefts within the city. The fund is open to applications and makes awards on an annual basis. In order to meet the criteria of the fund, applications need to be considered by Safer York Partnership or approved for submission by the relevant ward committee.

Councillor Sandy Fraser, said:

"The fund has been managed in this way for a number of years. However, whilst the process works in line with the council's wider approach, ensuring that its processes are effective and efficient, I would like to discuss a number of alternative options at the decision session. These options outline how the council can ensure that the maximum impact is achieved to help prevent crime in the city."

PICTURED: Sandy Frazer

The options include:

Option 1 - Retain the current level of promotion of the fund which is restricted to ward committees and key stakeholders working with them, Safer York Partnership and North Yorkshire Police. To ensure all of those currently receiving information/ invitation to bid to the fund get regular updates initiate a quarterly e- newsletter. In addition develop and deliver a member briefing session on ward budgets and the Target Hardening Fund as part of the existing member development programme.

Option 2 - As Option 1 and in addition promote the fund internally via the council's intranet to ensure a joined up approach across the authority.

Option 3 - As Option 2 and in addition promote the fund publicly so that residents and organisations active in the wards can make suggestions to the relevant ward committee for funding applications.

All options to be implemented alongside the ward committee local improvement scheme participatory budgeting process for the financial year 2013 - 2014 starting in June 2012.